Chapter 5 – The Christmas Show
The evening air was crisp, filled with the scent of hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, and the faint sound of jingling bells. Clara tugged her scarf tighter as she walked with Sara through the bustling town square. Tonight, the town hosted a **Christmas show**, complete with karaoke, light dances, and festive performances.
"I needed this," Clara admitted softly. "A break from chores, tasks… everything."
Sara grinned. "You and me both. Tonight, we just enjoy ourselves. Let's forget the world for a bit."
The crowd cheered as the show began. Children's voices rang out in perfect harmony, singers belted familiar carols, and couples danced lightly on the stage in a gentle waltz that made Clara's heart lift.
Across the square, Ethan's sister tugged at his hand. "Come on, Ethan! I want to watch! You have to come with me."
Ethan groaned. "I don't really do… this," he muttered, adjusting his coat.
"You're not letting me go alone, are you?" she teased. "You're coming whether you like it or not."
Reluctantly, Ethan followed, his expression unreadable, while Clara and Sara settled near the front, eyes wide with anticipation.
As the show progressed, Clara's attention drifted, and her heart skipped a beat. **Ethan stood a few feet away**, quietly observing the performances. She blinked in surprise — he had never attended events like this before. But seeing him now, calm and composed, she thought, *maybe he's changed these past years.*
Quickly, she averted her gaze, focusing on Sara who was bouncing slightly with excitement.
Suddenly, the host's voice rang out. "Ladies and gentlemen, a special surprise! We're about to play a song, and whomever the spotlight lands on last will be paired to sing along!"
Clara froze as the spinning spotlight slowly stopped — pointing at **her**. Her heart pounded. And then… **Ethan**.
"Ethan!" his sister whispered, grinning.
Clara's eyes widened. *Oh no… not him…*
"Uh, I… I can't," Ethan murmured, trying to step back.
Sara grabbed Clara's hand firmly. "Nope! You're not escaping. Go!" she whispered with a mischievous grin.
The crowd erupted in cheers, "Come on! Don't be shy!"
A familiar tune began to play — their **favorite song**. Clara's nerves melted as she instinctively sang the first line. To her surprise, Ethan's voice joined hers, rich and steady, perfectly harmonizing with her own.
As they sang, memories of college, laughter, and moments shared flooded back. Clara's heart raced. She remembered how madly in love she had been with him, and Ethan realized something startling — he still loved her too.
Slowly, he stepped closer, hands brushing against her waist. The crowd faded from Clara's vision as he gently held her, swaying to the music. Their voices mingled, perfectly in sync, their movements instinctive and natural.
By the chorus, they were dancing slowly together, fully immersed in the song, the crowd cheering and clapping around them.
"You two make a cute couple!" someone shouted from the audience.
Clara's cheeks burned crimson, and Sara burst into uncontrollable laughter beside her.
Ethan's eyes met hers, holding a depth of emotion words could never capture. And in that fleeting, magical moment, amidst the music and laughter, they both realized — the spark they thought had long died was very much alive.